Islamic Affairs Ministry Sets Stage for Zakat-Funded Scholarships After USD 6.48 Million Raised

Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, the Minister of Islamic Affairs, announced that the Zakat Fund scholarships will open this week, as the Maldives Zakat House collected USD 6.48 million in property zakat for 2024. This achievement marks the highest amount ever received in the nation's history and reflects the generosity of the Maldivian people and the government's strengthened efforts to bolster the zakat system. According to the ministry, this remarkable growth is driving the expansion of crucial initiatives, including scholarships for higher education and support for vital medical specialisations.

As the ministry prepares to open applications for Zakat-funded scholarships this week, Minister Shaheem stated that the scholarships will provide opportunities for master's and doctoral degree (PhD) studies across key fields of Islamic knowledge. The minister also revealed that high-achieving Maldivian students currently pursuing Islamic studies independently in countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia will receive financial assistance through the fund.

The impact of the Zakat Fund extends beyond fostering Islamic scholarship. Minister Shaheem noted that through the 'Fi Sabilillah' section—or charity given for the sake of Almighty Allah—the fund will address critical shortages in specialist areas, particularly in the medical field, including super-specialisations.

Highlighting the significance of this milestone, Minister Shaheem credited the charitable contributions of the people for driving the Zakat Fund's growth, which he described as a victory for Islam. He added that resources would also be directed towards projects dedicated to spreading the knowledge of the Holy Quran and producing more Hafizes.

In addition to supporting education and Islamic initiatives, the Zakat Fund continues to assist the poor and needy through its 'Al-Fuqara' wa Al-Masakeen' section, providing essential aid for medical treatments such as kidney transplants, bone marrow transplants, and care for individuals battling major illnesses like lung disease and cancer.

Minister Shaheem also lauded President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's role in strengthening the Maldivian zakat system, which has yielded significant results. The ministry reported that more than USD 2.20 million has been collected as zakat during the first quarter of 2025 alone. This year also saw the highest-ever collection of Zakat al-Fitr, which was distributed equitably among the poor nationwide.